Over the years there has been a lot of development in hearing aid technology with promising changes that significantly improve how well one hears, comfort levels and ease of use. However, although there has been progress made on this front, most individuals have not moved past old thinking about them. People’s misconceptions prevent them from utilizing these beneficial tools. So, what about these common myths about hearing aids?
Myth #1: Hearing Aids Are Only for Older Adults
While older adults experience hearing loss more than anyone else, it is a condition not limited to them alone. Some studies have shown that millions of children and even younger adults have experienced this problem at some point in life. For people who have this problem using hearing aids would make their communication easy because of increased audibility thereby increasing their quality of life. It is wrong to think that only old people use these devices when in the real sense students’ age group also use them for socializing as well as learning purposes.
Myth #2: Hearing Aids Restore Hearing to Normal Levels
People often think of hearing aids in the same way as they do glasses – just put them on and your hearing is as good as new. The clarity and loudness of sounds may be largely enhanced when using them. Even so, they don’t provide full restoration back to native hearing ability. Primarily, they are meant to boost sounds, thereby, enabling better treatment of those sounds by the brain. Among other things, this leads to increased comprehension of speech, and that makes it easier for one to hear clearly. Moreover, during the adaptation stage it plays a critical role, as our mind must get used to these louder noises that are not from us.
Myth #3: All Hearing Aids Are Big and Noticeable
Large and bulky hearing aids are things of the past. Advancements in technology have led to their production as small, and unnoticeable gadgets which can be worn without anyone noticing. These days, hearing devices are designed in such a manner that they can be comfortably worn within one’s ear, hence remaining unnoticed by others. Actually, there are two common styles of modern day hearing aids; some are worn inside the ear canal while others have body-worn components like tiny tubes connecting them to receivers located off-center near an eardrum. If you have previously ruled out using hearing aids, because the way they look makes you uneasy, then here is good news for you.
Myth #4: Hearing Aids Are Complicated to Use
A few individuals are reluctant to wear hearing aids as they feel they may be difficult to manage. This is far from the truth, with the current designs of hearing aids being simple. The majority of them come with automatic settings that recognize and adjust to different sound environments. Some models have mobile apps that enable users to change the volume or program with only a few clicks. If you’re any good with machines, you shouldn’t be scared – simple features such as volume control and program switching are instilled too. Going the extra mile in helping new users overcome devices fear, hearing aid providers furnish training and support.
Myth #5: Hearing Aids Are Only Useful in Quiet Settings
Hearing-impaired individuals often hold a common misconception that hearing aids are useless in noisy environments. Indeed, background noise can be a barrier to hearing, however, many hearing aids today come with high-tech noise cancellation. This allows users to concentrate on certain sounds such as speech even in a noisy environment. Some devices feature directional microphones that pick only the front sounds, suppressing the back and side sounds. Currently, one can reasonably expect to be able to hold a conversation even in noisy places, such as restaurants, family reunions, and other similar occasions.
Myth #6: Hearing Aids Are Too Expensive
The expense of hearing devices ranges considerably. Some devices may be pricier than others, but cheaper ones are also available. Most insurance covers a percentage of the cost, plus committees exist to ensure equal access to hearing aids. Additionally, some manufacturers provide financing options to help with the initial purchase concern. For many, this investment becomes justifiable when considering the enhancement in the quality of life that hearing aids are likely to bring. Hearing Aids have their advantages as they have long-term impacts such as improved interactions, more freedom, and improved health.
Myth #7: I Only Need One Hearing Aid
When one suffers from hearing loss, it is safe to assume that, unless there is a major difference in the levels of hearing loss, both ears will be affected. Humans hear from both ears at the same time, hence, people can use two hearing aids more effectively than one. The use of both ears also facilitates the brain's sound localization, and clarity is enhanced. Audiologists frequently advise the use of two hearing aids for optimal correction, as a single hearing aid may not help in providing balance or clarity in difficult listening situations.
Myth #8: Hearing Aids Are Just for Severe Hearing Loss
Several individuals tend to think that hearing devices are only needed by individuals with extreme hearing impairment. In fact, hearing devices can help people with many levels of hearing problems, even those with slight to moderate hearing loss. In addition, even slight hearing impairments can hinder day-to-day tasks such as talking, watching television, or participating in social events. Hearing aids assist individuals in remaining communicative and sociable irrespective of pronounced hearing loss by enhancing the other significant sounds.
Myth #9: Wearing Hearing Aids Means I’m Old or Frail
It is a common belief that wearing a hearing aid is an indication of age or weakness, however, hearing loss is merely a health issue that could occur to anyone. More so, why should one treat it, and dig deep into the problem? Without treatment, hearing loss can result in major health issues and complications like dementia, stress, and even withdrawal from society’s activities. That is why, the idea of using hearing aids to rectify hearing challenges helps all people remain active, healthy, and involved in life. One change that can significantly alter perceptions towards hearing aids is the reinforcement of the fact that they are health equipment and have no age limits.
Myth #10: I Don’t Need a Hearing Aid Yet—I Can Just Turn Up the Volume
Perhaps requesting that the others speak louder or increasing the volume of the television may seem to mitigate the problem for a while, but it never resolves it completely. Hearing devices, on the other hand, are meant to enhance certain sounds and rich frequencies that render speech, music, and other pleasant sounds clearly, without simply having to raise the volume. Furthermore, this can pose a threat to one’s relations with relatives and friends, as they may get tired of constant adjusting of the volume. Such a device is more appropriate as it only amplifies sounds that make conversing and other related tasks enjoyable.
Myth #11: Hearing Aids Are Uncomfortable to Wear
Most people think that hearing aids are uncomfortable or blocking, but that’s hardly ever the case in contemporary designs. Nowadays, hearing aids are designed to fit inside or behind the ear comfortably, and most people using them do not remember wearing them. Hearing aids come in various sizes and styles to meet different ear shapes and individual inclinations. An audiologist also assists you in getting the most suitable option, ensuring that you can wear hearing aids all day without any discomfort. Although there might be a period of getting used to them, today’s gadgets are purely comfortable, making it impossible to compare them with the older models.
Myth #12: Hearing Aids Cause Further Hearing Loss
Many individuals are concerned that their ability to hear will progressively deteriorate over time. On the other hand, every hearing device has volume levels programmed, hence using them will not cause any damage to one’s ear. In fact, they help in reducing the deterioration further by providing the brain with sounds to work with. The actual danger to one’s auditory well-being comes from allowing hearing loss to progress unaddressed, which will cause cognitive deterioration and eventually, social detachment. If wearing hearing aids, you will probably manage to get better hearing and also hear without as much effort and fatigue as before.
Myth #13: I Tried Hearing Aids Before, and They Didn’t Work for Me
Hearing aid technology has efficiently advanced over the years. If you had a negative experience with a hearing aid or implanted device before, it may be worth giving it a second shot. Newer devices are more interactive, easier to wear, and have better sound than the older versions. Moreover, hearing aids can be fine-tuned at intervals to cope with your hearing requirements as they change. One of the critical factors toward having a good experience is visiting an audiologist to ensure all the fitting and settings are well done. Like any other medical instrument, getting the appropriate one is usually a very big deal.
Myth #14: I Can’t Use Hearing Aids with My Active Lifestyle
An active lifestyle does not have to be compromised just because you wear hearing aids. Modern hearing aids are more rugged than ever, with some having designs that repel sweat, moisture, and even light water submersion. Such models have been designed for sports and outdoor activities, offering strength and support to runners and those who love hiking and outdoor activities. For those participants or observers who are athletes or who simply live an active lifestyle, sports hearing aids prevent limitations on daily activities.
Myth #15: People Will Treat Me Differently if They See My Hearing Aids
The fear of social discrimination is one of the major factors that make people postpone the use of hearing aids. But with the escalation of awareness, it is preferable to say that the greater population is beginning to understand that hearing aids are merely a different form of assistive devices. As a matter of fact, treating hearing impairment will help enhance social interaction and facilitate effective communication. Hearing aids allow individuals to participate actively in social events rather than trying to focus on the people speaking and missing parts of the conversation. People also tend to gain their self-esteem back because of the ability to hear, which enables them to speak and enjoy conversations.
While misconceptions about hearing aids are common, the reality is that these devices can significantly improve life for people with hearing loss. Today’s models are discreet, effective, and built for a variety of lifestyles and hearing needs. Whether you’re considering hearing aids for yourself or a loved one, learning the facts can help you make an informed decision. At EarRite, we offer you top-of-the-line hearing aids designed to support clear hearing and comfortable use.
